Rising pop singer-songwriter, Jena Rose, will be releasing “Checkmate” on June 11th after being inspired by Netflix’s series, “The Queen’s Gambit.” Taking on the difficulties of relationships, the singer highlights the idea of knowing your worth and embracing it…in all areas of your life! And we love it! Gravitating towards a career in music from a very young age, it was definitely meant to be! She is also signed to Gem Street Music! Keep reading on and get to know more about the beautiful and talented, Jena Rose!
Share with us the meaning behind “Checkmate.” When did you first start writing it?
I, like almost every other Netflix consumer, became obsessed with “The Queen’s Gambit” during the pandemic and the show really sparked an interest in chess for me. After picking up this new hobby, I started to apply the gameplay strategies and challenges to various real-life scenarios and thought the message behind “Checkmate” could be super powerful lyrically. The song focuses around a toxic relationship, but it can really relate to any relationship, whether it is friends, coworkers or anyone in your life. In the game of life, when someone doesn’t know their worth, they have the power to stand up for themselves and ‘check’ the other person. Kind of like “Bye Felicia!” It’s like “Checkmate!” My goal is for #Checkmate to become the new bye Felicia. I believe in treating people how you want to be treated and wanted that message to shine throughout the song.
Do you recall the moment you wrote the first words to the song? Can you describe that moment?
Yes! I thought of the concept and the title of Checkmate first. Then the chorus came very easily after that. It’s always a great feeling when words flow and the song starts to come together!
What does this song mean to you both as an artist and personally?
Personally, music has always been everything to me and my whole life revolves around it. As an artist and a songwriter, every song I write has a special place in my heart and there is no better feeling than when I get to release them out to the world. With “Checkmate”, I aim to inspire listeners to empower themselves to stand up for what is right for them whether that applies to a friendship or a relationship.
Why did you choose to get into music?
I’ve been very lucky to have known what I’ve wanted to do since I was very young. I started playing piano and guitar at a very young age and would put on concerts for my family all the time. I actually got into vocal lessons by chance, but I loved it the second I started. My instructor ended up pushing me to perform at the House Of Blues in Dallas at nine years old and that performance single handedly changed my life because ever since that night, I knew that making music and performing was what I was meant to do.
If you could tell your fans anything right now, what would it be?
I want them to know that every time I write a song, I do it for them. My goal is for listeners to relate to my songs in their own way and use them as an outlet for their emotions just as I do with music. My fans mean the world to me and I hope they love “Checkmate”!
Tell us a story about a time you were completely pushed out of your comfort zone.
I grew up very reserved, so when I had my first performance at the House of Blues, it was a major accomplishment for little Jena. My friend was supposed to perform with me, but at the last minute she had to go out of town, so I was left to do it by myself. I was terrified and completely out of my comfort zone, but in the end I felt in my element and I was so happy that I pushed myself to face my fear head on!
Who is someone you would love to collaborate with? (both dead or alive)
The Beatles, Depeche Mode, Queen, Duran Duran, and Elton John would be dream collaborations for me!!
What comes next for 2021?
New music! “Checkmate” is first up and then there will be another single shortly after. I also have an EP set to launch later this year, which I am so excited about! I am constantly working on new music and I truly cannot wait for people to hear! Big picture, I honestly wanna take over the world and that’s what I plan to do!
@BELLOmag
Talent Jena Rose @jenarosemusic
interview Alexandra Bonnet @alexbonnetwrites
